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Next to Santa Claus, the Easter Bunny is probably the most beloved bringer of gifts to small children.
This famous symbol of spring was originally associated with Eostre, a German goddess of fertility who was often depicted with a rabbit companion. Both rabbits and eggs, not surprisingly, are considered symbolic of fertility.
The bunny as a symbol of Easter was first mentioned in German writings during the 16th century, and edible bunnies made of pastry and sugar were made in Germany during the 19th century.
The Easter Bunny was introduced to American children by German settlers in the Pennsylvania Dutch region in the 1700s.
Children were encouraged to build colorful nests and hide them in their homes. If the children had been good, the Osterhase would leave brightly colored eggs in the nests.